Daryl Smith

Former NFL linebacker for the Jacksonville Jaguars, member of the 1998 Dougherty High School Trojans football team

What is Daryl Smith known for?

Former NFL linebacker Daryl Smith, originally from Albany, Georgia, U.S, is a notable alumnus of Dougherty Comprehensive High School in Albany. Born on March 14, 1982, he excelled in his high school football career leading him to play college football at Georgia Tech. During his college career, he was a four-year letterman and a team captain with commendable performance of leading the team in tackles for two of his four years. He recorded a remarkable 383 tackles, 15 sacks, and three interceptions at Georgia Tech.

Drafting in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft, Smith started his professional career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He made his way up to get signed into a four-year, $3.25 million contract with the Jaguars, demonstrating impressive performance despite a knee injury during his rookie season. Throughout his tenure in the Jaguars, he earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors and became the Jaguars' all-time leader in tackles, surpassing former safety Donovin Darius in 2010.

Smith's NFL journey didn't end with the Jaguars, as he later played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2013 - 2015, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2016. His signing with the Ravens was primarily to strengthen their inside linebacker core. He outperformed in Baltimore, breaking Ray Lewis' franchise record for most pass deflection in a single season, confirming his ability to play at a high level.

Over his NFL career, Smith accumulated enviable statistics: an impressive total of 1,088 tackles, 30.5 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries, 12 interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns. He was also recognized as the NFL forced fumbles co-leader in 2014. Check out his detailed stats at NFL.com.